DST and Mpumalanga to host the 2017 Indigenous Knowledge Systems Expo
South Africa’s rich indigenous knowledge will be on show at the annual Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS) Expo and Workshop, which takes place in Mpumalanga this year.
From 26 to 28 September, communities in and around Mbombela will have the opportunity to learn more about indigenous knowledge and how old knowledge can be used to generate new economic opportunities.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST), in conjunction with the Mpumalanga Provincial Government, will host the event at Mbombela Stadium. The Departments of Arts and Culture, and Tourism are also supporting this event as part of Heritage Month.
The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, and the Premier of Mpumalanga, David Mabuza, will officially open the event, which will also be attended by members of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Science and Technology.
The event brings together more than 30 exhibitors with exciting displays on indigenous medicine, food, arts and crafts, among other things, providing a unique opportunity to celebrate the country’s heritage while demonstrating the link between culture and science.
More than 5 000 community members are expected to attend and experience first-hand how indigenous knowledge has evolved over the years, and how they can commercialise innovative indigenous products.
Leading researchers and academics from different academic institutions in the country will also make presentations on the use of indigenous knowledge to develop cosmeceuticals and nutraceuticals.
Source: Government of South Africa